Uses

What is Tavaborole used for?

Tavaborole is used to treat toenail infection caused by fungus. It works by stopping the growth of certain types of fungus. Tavaborole belongs to a class of drugs known as oxaborole antifungals.

This medication treats only fungal infections. It will not work for other types of infection, such as those caused by bacteria. Unnecessary use or misuse of any drug used to treat infection can lead to its decreased effectiveness.

How should I take Tavaborole?

Before applying this medication, clean and dry the infected toenail(s). Use this medication only on the infected toenail(s) as directed by your doctor, usually once daily for 48 weeks. If this medication is used on a child, an adult should apply it for them.

Using the provided dropper, apply to the infected toenail(s). Slowly squeeze the bulb to apply enough solution to completely cover your toenail. Use the dropper tip to gently spread the medication over the toenail up to the edges, and under the tip of the toenail. Repeat for each affected toenail. After applying, wait about 2 minutes to let the solution dry completely before wearing socks, shoes, or other footwear. If the solution comes in contact with skin around the toenail(s), use a tissue to wipe any excess solution from the surrounding skin. Wash your hands with soap and water after applying the medication.

Avoid getting this medication on any other part of your body. If this accidentally happens, wipe off the medication and rinse thoroughly with water.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Continue using it for the full time prescribed. Nail fungus treatment usually must be continued a long time so that healthy nails can grow and replace the infected toenail(s). Stopping the medication too early may allow fungus to continue to grow, which may result in a return of the infection.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

Since this product can catch on fire, do not use it near heat or an open flame.

How do I store Tavaborole?

Tavaborole is best stored at room temperature away from direct light and moisture, and open flame. To prevent drug damage, you should not store Tavaborole in the bathroom or the freezer. There may be different brands of Tavaborole that may have different storage needs. It is important to always check the product package for instructions on storage, or ask your pharmacist. For safety, you should keep all medicines away from children and pets.

You should not flush Tavaborole down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. It is important to properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist for more details about how to safely discard your product.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before using Tavaborole?

Before using tavaborole, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breast-feeding?

There are no adequate studies in women for determining risk when using this Tavaborole during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Please always consult with your doctor to weigh the potential benefits and risks before taking Tavaborole. Tavaborole is pregnancy risk category C according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

FDA pregnancy risk category reference below:

A=No risk,

B=No risk in some studies,

C=There may be some risk,

D=Positive evidence of risk,

X=Contraindicated,

N=Unknown

Side effects

What side effects can occur from Tavaborole?

Application site irritation, redness, itching, swelling, or skin peeling may occur. Ingrown toenails may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, stop using this medication and tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about a side-effect, please consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Interactions

What drugs may interact with Tavaborole?

Tavaborole may interact with other drugs that you are currently taking, which can change how your drug works or increase your risk for serious side effects. To avoid any potential drug interactions, you should keep a list of all the drugs you are using (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. For your safety, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any drugs without your doctor’s approval.

Does food or alcohol interact with Tavaborole?

Tavaborole may interact with food or alcohol by altering the way the drug works or increase the risk for serious side effects. Please discuss with your doctor or pharmacist any potential food or alcohol interactions before using this drug.

What health conditions may interact with Tavaborole?

Tavaborole may interact with your health condition. This interaction may worsen your health condition or alter the way the drug works. It is important to always let your doctor and pharmacist know all the health conditions you currently have.

Dosage

The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. You should ALWAYS consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using this Tavaborole.

What is the dose of Tavaborole for an adult?

Usual Adult Dose for Onychomycosis – Toenail

Apply drug to affected toenail(s) once daily.

Duration of therapy:

-48 weeks of daily application

Comments:

-Discard after 3 months of dropper insertion.

Use:

-The drug is indicated for the topical treatment of toenail onychomycosis due to Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. These strains have not demonstrated resistance following repeated exposure to the drug.

Other Comments

Administration advice:

-Clean and dry affected toenail prior to using drug. Apply the drug over entire nail surface and under the tip of each affected nail. Wipe away any excess from the surrounding skin. Allow drug to dry completely following application. Wash hands with soap and water after applying drug.

Storage requirements:

-Drug is flammable. Keep away from heat and flame.

-Keep bottle tightly closed.

-Keep out of reach of children.

Patient advice:

-This drug is used to treat fungal infections of the toenails only. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, vagina, and skin other than skin immediately surrounding affected toenail(s).

What is the dose of Tavaborole for a child?

The dosage has not been established in pediatric patients. It may be unsafe for your child. It is always important to fully understand the safety of the drug before using. Please consult with your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How is Tavaborole available?

Tavaborole is available in the following dosage forms and strengths:

Topical solution.

What should I do in case of an emergency or overdose?

In case of an emergency or an overdose, call your local emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of Tavaborole, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regular dose as scheduled. Do not take a double dose.